Houthi militia forces tribal leaders from Al-Masoud in Al-Bayda to attend sectarian training sessions.
Houthi Militias Force Tribal Leaders to Attend Sectarian Courses in Yemen
In a troubling development, the Houthi militia has compelled tribal leaders from the Al-Masoud tribe in the Al-Qurayshiyah district of Al-Bayda province, Yemen, to attend sectarian courses in the capital, Sana’a. This coercion occurs amid ongoing military operations in the region.
Coercion and Threats
Local sources report that the Houthi militia threatened several tribal leaders with severe repercussions if they refused to participate in these courses. The militia’s tactics reflect a broader strategy to consolidate control over the area while suppressing dissent.
Ongoing Military Campaign
The militia continues to besiege the Al-Masoud areas, restricting citizens’ movements and conducting frequent raids on homes. These actions create an atmosphere of fear and uncertainty among the local population.
Detention of Local Residents
Reports indicate that the militia still holds dozens of local residents in detention centers in both Al-Bayda and Sana’a. These individuals were abducted during a military campaign that began earlier this month, highlighting the militia’s aggressive tactics.
Recent Attacks and Casualties
On January 12, the militia launched a violent assault on the Al-Masoud village in Al-Qurayshiyah after weeks of severe blockade and systematic shelling of civilian homes. The Iran-backed group employed drones and heavy weaponry, resulting in retaliatory crimes against the local population.
Human Rights Violations
Human rights reports reveal that the initial days of the Houthi campaign led to the deaths of at least seven civilians, with 18 others injured, including women and children. Additionally, the militia abducted approximately 400 civilians, including children and the elderly. The violence also resulted in the destruction of 21 homes, with several others suffering partial damage.
This ongoing situation underscores the urgent need for international attention and intervention to protect the rights and safety of civilians in Yemen.
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